Processor problems

[f_lightning2001]

I've got an eMachines M2350 laptop.
Specs are:
Mobile AMD Athalon(tm) XP 2800
2.14 ghz, 512 mb of ram....

However when I open up my computer properties it always says anywhere from 500 mhz to 900 mhz. I've heard that the mobile processor lowers it's speed and adjusts to the amount of programs running. If this is true is there any way of turning that feature off? Thanks in advance....

 

[Alvin.C]

Hello,

The CPU throttling technology in AMD's mobile processors is called 'PowerNow!'. It throttles the clock speed of the processor depending on utilisation. For example, during an idle period the clock speed is lowered, and when running a processor intensive program the clock speed increases.

It can usually be disabled in the BIOS. If there is no option in the BIOS, it can also be disabled by selecting the 'Always On' default power scheme in the 'Power Options' of Windows XP.

However, keep in mind that disabling Cool'n'Quiet will result in your processor operating at maximum frequency, resulting in lower battery life, higher heat dissipation and more noise. In my opinion, I suggest you keep PowerNow! enabled.

 

[f_lightning2001]

Thanks. I appreciate it. I'll probably just leave it the way it is then.